Tips from the healthroom

At different times in the year, head lice are found among our student population. It is always informative for parents to know more about lice and the purpose of this post is to inform. This post does not imply that lice is a problem at Martic.

Lice are parasites that have been around for as long as people can remember. Anyone can get lice. They are not associated with disease, but can be difficult to destroy, and treatments can be costly and result in missed work and school time. In addition, there is evidence that they are becoming resistant to current treatments, much like bacteria become resistant to antibiotics. Head lice are generally spread by direct, head to head contact with a person who is infested with live lice. Avoiding head to head contact is the best prevention. You may also wish to do the following:

Tell your children not to use a comb, brush, hat or towel that belongs to someone else.

Once a week check the heads of all of your family members for lice and eggs (nits).

Lice are grayish-white or light brown insects that crawl on or near the scalp. They are one-eight to one-fourth inch in length. The eggs or nits are teardrop-shaped and are firmly attached to the hairs, usually within one-half inch of the scalp. They do not flick off, and therefore, can be distinguished from dandruff.

If you find lice on your child’s head and need advice about treatment, your school nurse will be able to advise you. The nurse will keep this information confidential. You may also wish to consult your doctor or a pharmacist. If you treat your child for head lice, we request that you contact the school nurse and make an appointment to have your child checked by the school nurse the morning they return to school after the treatment.

Information from the CDC about lice and treatment for lice can also be found at the following site: